Eleni Mandell Takes Manhattan

The lovely and talented Eleni Mandell was in town this week to kick off a March US tour at a sold out show at Joe's Pub.

She and her band had a pretty full schedule while they were here, and I was lucky enough to spend some time with them during the trip.

It started at a taping on WNYC Soundcheck, where Eleni spoke to host John Schaefer, and the band performed a couple of songs from Eleni's stellar new album 'Artificial Fire.'


Left to Right: drummer DJ Bonebrake (yes, "that" DJ Bonebrake), Eleni, John Schaefer, bassist Ryan Feves, guitarist Jeremy Drake

Next it was over to a taping for the New York Times Popcast. Eleni performed 'Artificial Fire' standout "Personal" solo, and spoke with Times scribe Ben Sisario.


Left to Right: Eleni and Ben

Then it was off to WFUV for a performance chat with Claudia Marshall.


Left To Right: WFUV's Rita Houston, Eleni and Claudia

The trip concluded with the previously mentioned sold out Joe's Pub gig. Eleni and the band played to a rapturous standing room only audience, performing an 'Artificial Fire' heavy set, but also mixing in deep cuts like "Make-Out King" and closing the show with a raucous "Pauline" (from 200o's 'Thrill').